Internal Internship Opportunities

CTAHR INTERNSHIPS

Interested in an internship program that focuses on agriculture, food production, nutrition, resource management, and more? Find more information below!

https://internships.ctahr.hawaii.edu/

KUPU Year-Round Internship with the Teaching Change Partnership

This KUPU year-round membership opportunity is for people that love Hawai'i and are interested in learning how to lead Bioculturally-grounded conservation experiences for middle and high school students.

As part of your KUPU experience, you will: 

• Learn how to lead overnight conservation education programs at the Hakalau
  Forest National Wildlife Refuge and the Puʻuwaʻawaʻa Dry Forest.
• Help plan conservation education events including the Biocultural Blitz in
  Puʻuwaʻawaʻa and Earth Dayʻs Conservation Career Day on the UH-Hilo Campus.
• Understand how to weave biocultural stewardship, climate change, and place-based
  learning into programming for Hawaiʻi Island Youth and their teachers.
  In the process, you will make great professional connections, earn $18,000, and receive a
  $5,000 education award.

To learn more about our programs: https://www.teaching-change.org/

For questions/ more information, please contact tchange@hawaii.edu.

Internal Assistantship Opportunities

Graduate Research Position in Environmental Economics - (Recreation)

The selected candidate will have the opportunity to work with an interdisciplinary team
developing a strategic plan to manage the state of Hawaii’s Na Ala Hele public trail system. This
research aims to quantify the economic, social, and ecological dimensions of recreational
impacts, public perceptions of use management approaches, providing valuable insights for
sustainable management and conservation strategies.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct literature review of existing methodologies and frameworks focused on trial management, environmental economis, nonmarket valuation, willingness-to-pay and recreational impacts assessment.
• Design and implement data collection strategies, including designing surveys, web scraping crowdsourced data, or other relevant information recreational information to examine various impacts to better manage Hawaiʻi trails for current and future generations.
• Apply quantitative and/or qualitative analysis techniques to assess and quantify the economic, social, and environmental values associated with recreational activities.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams and stakeholders to integrate research findings into management and policy recommendations.
• Prepare and present research findings at conferences, workshops, and academic seminars.
• Prepare a report/thesis documenting the research process, findings, and conclusions.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Current (or qualified for M.S. enrollment in NREM) in a graduate program at UH. Interests in natural economics and environment science such as Natural Resources and Environmental Management (NREM) or Economics Department.
• Bachelor’s degree in economics, statistics, natural resource management, environmental science or related field.
• Interest in environmental valuation, ecosystem services, and recreational ecology.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment.

Desirable Qualifications:

• Good data, database management skills;
• Prior experience in research or fieldwork related to economics is preferred but not required
• Excellent statistics and spatial analysis skills (GIS, R, Stata, or python);
• Strong in-person communication skills;

Benefits:

• Opportunity to work with leading researchers in the field of economics, environmental and ecosystem management.
• Hands-on experience in designing, conducting, and analyzing research projects.
• Access to academic facilities, resources, and professional development opportunities.
• Two-years of graduate research funding available.

Duration:
Begin Fall 2024 with 2 years of graduate research funding.

Application Instructions:
Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae (CV), academic transcripts,
and contact information for two references via alowemac@hawaii.edu. Please indicate
"Graduate Research Position Application - Environmental Economics” in the subject line.
Review of applications will begin in Summer of 2024 and continue until the position is filled.
 

Contact Information:
For inquiries about the position or application process, please contact Ashley Lowe Mackenzie,
Assistant Professor at alowemac@hawaii.edu or 808-956-0908.

Internal Postdoc Opportunities

Postdoctoral Fellow in Remote Sensing of Invasive and Nuisance Species

The Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Management at the University of Hawaiʻi and Manoa seeks a recent Ph.D. interest in applying remote sensing techniques to the management of coral reef ecosystems in the Marine Monuments of the Pacific. 

The postdoctoral fellow will design and implement research applying high-resolution satellite data to invasive and nuisance species detection on reefs in Marine National Monuments across the Pacific, document long-term trends in benthic cover, aid in the development of remote sensing tools for the conservation of coral reefs in the Pacific Islands. Study areas are the reefs of Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument (MNM), Pacific Remote Islands MNM, and Rose Atoll National Wildlife Refuge. 

Opportunities:

• Develop advanced skill in remote sensing of coastal ecosystems, analytical skills, programming skills, and collaborate with researchers at various institutions, including the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services, and National Aeronautics and Space Administration. 
• Opportunities to collect data from field sites, either in person or through partnerships. The fellow is expected to present the results of the project at national/ international conferences and publish them in peer-reviewed journals. 

Minimum Qualifications: 

• Ph.D. in resource management, coastal environment, or related field with a background in coastal remote sensing.
• Experience with image processing software and GIS software.
• Experience with computer programming (e.g., R, Python, C, etc.). 

Desirable Qualifications:

• Experience conducting field work involving remote sensing.
• Experience in processing a wide variety of datasets.
• Familiarity with various image data format. 

To apply, please submit electronically a statement of research interest including how you meet the minimum and/ or desirable qualifications, curriculum vitae, and the names and contact information (including email address) of three professional references to Tomoaki Miura (tomoakim@hawaii.edu, +1-808-956-7333). 

Application deadline: Application will remain open until position is filled. 

Internal Job Opportunities

Technical Coordinator - Hawai'i Climate Smart Commodities Partnership

• Agency: Hawaiʻi Climate Smart Commodities Partnership
• Location: Hilo based - work is performed remotely and at outdoor sites. Regular travel on-island. Some travel to neighboring islands. 
• Compensation: $68,000 - $74,500 / yr
• Desired Qualifications:​
  • Master’s degree in agricultural sciences, environmental sciences or related field; or a Bachelor’s degree plus an equivalent of  >5 years of relevant work experience.
  • Experience working in tropical or semi-tropical agricultural systems with a deep understanding of climate-smart agriculture and forestry concepts.
  • Computer skills, communication, writing and presentation skills, experience in using GPS, database software, Google Workspace, and Microsoft Office.
  • Place-based familiarity with cultural norms and values and respectful engagement with Hawaiʻi’s diverse communities is essential.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills and experience working with a wide range of individuals in government, private sector and agriculture, especially in Native Hawaiian culture and communities.
  • Commitment to responsible scientific conduct. Please refer to these key practices as reference: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK208714/ 
  • Applicants must be able to possess and maintain a valid driver’s license and motor vehicle insurance that meets or exceeds State of Hawai‘i requirements for the duration of the project term. 

• Description: We seek a highly-motivated, full-time Technical Coordinator to ensure the successful implementation, measurement, monitoring, and verification of climate-smart practices by Hawaiʻi farmers and ranchers. A successful candidate is passionate about climate-smart agriculture and soil science to support us in providing technical assistance to a network of partner organizations and producers statewide. 

• Click here for full job description and application details

PCSU Field Services - PCSU/INRMP Field Technician Assistant

• Start Date: Immediate, direct hire, July 22-26, 2024 at the latest.
• End Date: Up to 5 months.
• Pay: $19- $21/hour depending on experience.
• Description: Performs a range of fieldwork activities as a part of the JBPHH Natural Resources team to support Integrated Natural Resources Management Plan (INRMP) execution. Key responsibilities include: vegetation clearing, assisting with predator control efforts, handling predator box building materials, minimal monitoring of protected species populations, and responding to wildlife emergencies. This position includes performing manual and mechanical removal of invasive plant species, maintaining trails and access points to ensure passage for personnel, use of hand tools, chainsaws, and other equipment safely and efficiently. Engages in regularly monitoring and maintaining predator traps according to established protocols and handling trapped predators humanely and according to operation guidelines. Builds and transports materials required for habitat restoration projects, participates in field surveys with Pacific Cooperative Studies Unit staff to monitor protected species on base and conducts in-water surveys using boat equipment. Responds to reports of injured wildlife, which may potentially be outside of core working hours. Maintains databases and ensures that all data collected are incorporated in a timely manner. Assists with producing reports, spreadsheets, tables, and graphs. Includes driving state vehicles. Driving work vehicles is essential for a small team to be able to get to all the areas we monitor and complete all the survey efforts assigned.
• Apply: If interested in this temporary, FTE position, please send a resume to rdnord@hawaii.edu.

Kauai Forest Bird Recovery Project - Senior Field and Data Technician

• Start Date: 9/2/2024
• End Date: 12/20/2024 with possibility of extension
• Pay: $25/hr
• Position Description: Conducts research and management projects for the recovery of Kauai’s threatened and endangered bird species and their habitats. Captures and surveys mosquitos for avian disease studies in native, restored, and non-native forest habitats. Conducts fieldwork in restoring native vegetation and conducts other management activities (e.g., predator control, monitoring, weed control, and coordinating and leading volunteers, interns and seasonal staff) to benefit the Akekee, Akikiki, Puaiohi, and other native species. Conducts field data collection on population ecology of native forest birds, especially factors limiting populations. Captures, bands, bleeds and processes birds using mist-nets and play-back. Conducts surveys to document distribution, relative abundance, and survival of forest birds. Assists in implementation of endangered species recovery techniques, including small mammal monitoring and control. Oversees preparations and assists with logistics for field operations. Enters field and Geographic Information System (GIS) data into computer files for information summary and reporting and helps write reports. Conducts all operations according to accepted safety standards and established protocols and ensures adherence to said standards and protocols. Drives project vehicles both on and off road and works in and around helicopters, as part of fieldwork. Maintains field equipment and field stations.
• Requirements: Ability to conduct fieldwork in high elevation forest (up to 4,500 feet) under cold, wet, and extremely rugged field conditions. Able to hike on poor footing conditions for ten to fifteen (10 - 15) miles, carrying loads up to fifty (50) pounds unassisted. Ability to live and work in remote field camps under primitive conditions in close quarters with other individuals for up to ten (10) consecutive days. Requires irregular working hours, with many duties occurring in the early morning and on weekends. Frequent helicopter and occasional inter-island travel, and frequent camping for up to ten (10) days in remote field sites required as part of duties. Employee is expected to act in a professional manner to promote a positive public image. Contributes to creating and preserving a positive and safe work environment. Must possess a valid driver’s license and maintain throughout the duration of employment. Must be able to drive a 4-wheel drive vehicle with manual transmission in off-road conditions.
• Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Biology, Conservation, Resource Management or similar from an accredited four (4) year college or university.
• Experience: One to three (1-3) years of experience in biological fieldwork. Experience should include mist netting, bleeding and banding of endangered or threatened passerines, identifying birds by sight and sound, nest searching, and navigating remote areas.
• To apply: Please send a cover letter, CV, contact information for 3 references, and a copy of your diploma/transcript to puaiohijobs@gmail.com by 7/19/24.

Hawaiʻi's Woodshow Coordinator - Hawaiʻi Forest Industry Association (HFIA)

• Agency: Hawaiʻi Forest Industry Association (HFIA)
• Location: Honolulu
• Compensation: $8,000-$10,000
• Schedule: Part-time independent contract position with flexible hours. To begin ASAP through December 2024. 
• Description: Hawaii’s Woodshow™, Na La‘au o Hawai‘i is the Hawai‘i Forest Industry Association’s (HFIA) annual woodworking exhibition.  Each year, attendees are treated to extraordinary heirloomquality works made from interesting and beautiful Hawai‘i-grown woods by Hawaii’s most talented artists.  Hawaii’s Woodshow encourages an appreciation for the participating artists and the materials they use and promotes the positive role forests play in our economy and ecology.  This year will be the 32nd annual exhibition, which is scheduled for Fall 2024 in Honolulu.  The Woodshow Coordinator will be responsible for all aspects of event planning and operations and must be Honolulu based.  
• Responsibilities: Responsibilities include oversight, management, planning, implementation, communications, and follow-up for all aspects of this annual exhibition, including securing a venue and coordinating the Show and Opening Reception. The Coordinator is expected to provide their own computer and telephone; be able to work from home until installation; work on-site to oversee installation, gallery management, security during the exhibition, and take-down; work with a volunteer committee; and report to the HFIA Executive Director.  A manual outlining previous operational procedures will be available. 
• Qualitifications: The successful applicant needs to be self-motivated; have excellent management, organizational, and communication skills; be able to innovate and solve problems quickly; work well with a variety of people; and have the confidence to manage the smooth execution of a high quality art exhibition.  Experience with event planning required.  Familiarity with Hawaii’s arts community and the forest industry sector preferred. 
• Apply: To apply, email resume to HFIA Executive Director Christopher Chwastyk at chris.hfia@hawaiiforest.org  
• Click here for position description

Climate Smart Specialist - O'ahu Resource Conservation & Development Council (ORCD)

Forestry Researcher - American Samoa Community College

• Agency: The American Samoa Community College, a US Land Grant institution
• Description: The Forestry Research program aims to increase understanding of American Samoa’s forest ecosystems in support of sound,
  stakeholder-responsive stewardship to ensure these natural treasures are preserved for future generations. The seven islands of
  American Samoa remain mostly forested, with inroads for agriculture and other development limited in part by the steep, rugged
  terrain. Major threats to the native forests include spreading invasive exotic tree species and more recently, pressure to move
  agriculture, as well as roads and other infrastructure, upslope to mitigate against climate-change induced sea level rise. Traditional
  agroforestry production systems remain key to enhancing food security, and trees are an abundant and essential part of the village
  environment as well as public spaces, such as parks and school grounds.
• Minimum qualifications: 
  • ​Master’s degree in Forestry, Botany, or related field
  • Proven research competence and two years research and/or extension experience
  • Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills
  • Proficiency in GPS/GIS with strong background in forest/agroforest management
  • Strength and stamina to conduct field work in the humid tropics
  • Pesticide applicator certification
• Salary Range: $64,804 - $70,264
• Application deadline: July 15, 2024
• Click here for full job posting and application details

Administrative Support (Operations Coordinator) (#77968T)

• Agency: UH Mānoa - College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources
• Description: As the only U.S. state in the Pacific basin, Hawai‘i faces unique challenges in infrastructure and disaster response. The University of Hawai‘i at Manoa (UHM), College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources (CTAHR) Cooperative Extension, can serve as a facilitator and catalyst for emergency preparedness, response, and recovery for people and communities. This position will convene and lead community-focused efforts to improve policy, systems, and environmental change (PSC) for communities and counties across the state of Hawai‘i. Additionally, this position will serve as the disaster response coordinator for CTAHR and Cooperative Extension during disasters, leveraging the required networks to maximize the resources of CTAHR, the land-grant university (LGU) system, and ensuring county-based Extension faculty and staff are supported and organized for a strategic response.
• Salary: Pay Band B (PBB); Starting at $5,250 mo. (effective 7/1/2024)
• Schedule: Full-Time. To begin August 1, 2024 or soon thereafter
• Application deadline: July 30, 2024
• Click here for the full job posting and application instructions

**List of Internship Opportunities that can be used towards NREM Internship Experience requirement (NREM 492)**

M.S. Graduate Research Assistantship – University of Hawaii at Hilo
Hawaii Cooperative Fishery Research Unit